Boat ladders make it easier for boaters and their passengers to get in and out of the water, whether from a dinghy or the boat deck itself. Whatever style of ladder is preferred --a folding or transom-style boarding ladder--Wholesale Marine carries a great selection. We stock specialized ladders for swimming and diving as well as the accessories required for their installation. Wholesale Marine hashigh quality pontoon ladders manufactured by Garelick and JIF to fit any pontoon boat.

How Do Pontoon Ladders Work?

To be effective, the ladder must extend below the water line, preferably with at least 2 to 4 rungs underwater. There must also be clearance for feet and hands so that swimmers may easily climb out of the water and on to the deck. Pontoon ladders feature large handrails and deep steps for ease of use. An important feature of any pontoon ladder is that it must fold up and out of the way when not in use or be removable and require little storage space on board.

What is the Best Ladder Choice for My Pontoon Boat?

1) For passengers who swim, a swim step ladder is an essential. These are suspended from the boat’s swim step and usually have up to three rungs. They may also fold up onto the platform when not in use.

2) Over the gunwale ladders are the most common. Their name comes from their distinct hook shape. These are used to onboard and to disembark.

3) Platform ladders extend from diving platforms which are generally placed to tone side of theengine on outboard-powered craft.

4) Dive Ladders are used for many sporting activities, but chiefly for swimming. These feature a central rod and crossed by its rungs. The rungs double as handholds. These boat ladders detach and mount easily to dive and swim platforms.

Most boat ladders are constructed from materials that weather the elements well, such as non-corrosive stainless steel, and aluminum. Wholesale Marine stocks pontoon ladders for recreational pontoon boating from the top manufacturers. If you have additional questions or are seeking advice on which ladder is best for your craft,contact us and we’ll be glad to review your options with you.